How to Brush Your Doodle: The Complete Guide
The single most important thing you can do for your doodle's coat is proper brushing. This guide teaches you the exact technique professional groomers use on thousands of doodles.
Quick Summary
- Frequency: Brush 3-5 times per week (daily for curly coats)
- Tools needed: Slicker brush + steel comb + detangling spray
- Key technique: Line brushing from the skin, not just surface
- Time required: 15-30 minutes for full brushout
Proper brushing isn't just about keeping your doodle looking good—it's about keeping them comfortable. A matted coat pulls at the skin, traps moisture, and can lead to painful skin issues.
The good news? With the right technique, brushing becomes easier for both you and your pup. Most owners we meet are brushing wrong—not because they don't care, but because nobody showed them the proper way.
What You'll Need
Slicker Brush
Curved preferred for doodles
Steel Comb
For checking & detailing
Detangling Spray
Reduces breakage & pain
Step-by-Step Brushing Guide
Prepare Your Doodle
Start with a calm, comfortable dog. Choose a time when they're relaxed—after a walk or play session is ideal. Have treats ready as rewards.
If your doodle is anxious about brushing, start with just 2-3 minutes and gradually increase. Positive associations matter more than perfection.
Spray Lightly with Detangler
Mist the coat lightly with detangling spray. Never brush a completely dry coat—this causes breakage and static. The spray also reduces any pulling sensation.
Don't soak the coat—a light mist is all you need. Too wet and the brush won't work effectively.
Start with the Legs and Feet
Begin at the feet and work your way up. This is where mats love to hide.
Use the line brushing technique: Part the hair with your free hand and brush in small sections, working from the ends toward the skin. Never brush over the top—you'll miss mats underneath.
Hold the hair above where you're brushing to reduce pulling on the skin. Your doodle will thank you.
Work Through the Body
Continue line brushing through the sides, chest, and back. Work in sections, lifting the coat to get all the way to the skin. Pay special attention to the armpits—this is mat central.
Don't Forget the Hidden Spots
Four areas that get missed most often:
- Behind the ears — friction from collars and head movement
- Under the collar area — remove the collar before brushing
- Armpits and groin — movement creates friction mats
- Between paw pads — often forgotten, often matted
Finish with the Head and Ears
Use gentle, short strokes around the face. Be extra careful near the eyes. Brush the ears thoroughly—the inner ear leather and behind the ears mat quickly.
Many doodles don't love face brushing. Keep sessions short and reward heavily here.
The Comb Test
Run a steel comb through every section you've brushed. If the comb glides through smoothly, you're done. If it catches, there's still a mat—go back with the slicker.
Skipping the comb test is the most common mistake. What feels smooth to touch may still have hidden mats near the skin.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Make Brushing a Positive Experience
Keep sessions short at first. Five good minutes beats thirty stressful ones. Build up gradually as your doodle learns to enjoy it.
Reward generously. Treats during and after brushing create positive associations. Eventually, many doodles come to love their brushing time.
Be consistent. Regular brushing is far easier than trying to detangle a neglected coat. Put it in your calendar and stick to it.
Keep Learning
Get the Complete Coat Care Guide
Download our free PDF with the full brushing routine, tool recommendations, and the 4 hidden mat zones most owners miss.
Download Free Guide